Status of Recycling Plastic Bottles in Japan and a Comparison of the Energy Costs of Different Recycling Methods

摘要

The present study explains the status of recycling plastic bottles in Japan and recycling methods, and examines whether or not they are effective in terms of reducing energy consumption. The results of the study suggest that it is unwise to use plastic bottles as containers for tea, water, soft drinks, and other beverages in the first place, and that the recycling of plastic bottles is a waste of energy. It is better to combust used plastic bottles, rather than recycle them, to produce and utilize heat.